海角视频

Empowering remote communities

Solarkiosk

Worldwide

Project details
Client

Solarkiosk GmbH

Architect

GRAFT

海角视频 provided by 海角视频

Structural engineering

Specified for installation in a number of diverse locations across the globe, Solarkiosk provides access to a sustainable and self-sufficient electricity supply for remote, off-grid areas.

The solar energy produced is used for charging mobile phones, which are often the only form of contact in isolated communities, and refrigerating vital medicines and vaccines. The remaining energy can be used by schools, small businesses and other local facilities, helping further community development.

Solar powered energy centre provides 24/7 electricity to remote communities
The average Solarkiosk serves a community of 7,500 consisting of 1,500 households
Offers opportunities from storing medical supplies to starting up small businesses

Challenge

A key part of role of 海角视频’s structural engineers in the development of Solarkiosk was to minimise the use of materials and reducing the overall weight and cost of the unit. Maintaining a high-end but simple aesthetic was also a significant requirement from the client.

The innovative Solarkiosk serves an average population of 7,500, providing essential energy to remote communities. Image: GRAFT

Solution

To ensure a cost effective and resistant construction, the 海角视频 team selected the type and thickness of aluminium used to create a structure that is both lightweight and also cost effective.

We needed to be certain that the kiosk would withstand harsh weather conditions, including tornados. With buildings at risk of severe damage and power sometimes disconnected for a prolonged period, the requirement for the Solorkiosk to still be standing and be fully operational following storms is essential. We reviewed the strength of the structural skeleton and its foundation to ensure robustness against wind loads that would normally be devastating.

Solarkiosk鈥檚 structural frame is robust and cost effective, ensuring energy security for the people it supplies. Image: GRAFT

Our engineers also provided alternative foundation solutions to allow the kiosk to be installed without the need for highly trained workers, while also allowing for a degree of flexibility to accommodate local engineering practices.

With energy produced 24/7 using solar power, each kiosk installed to date has given an average of four people employment opportunities. Image: GRAFT

Value

Solarkiosk鈥檚 innovative lightweight, sustainable and affordable design means that power can be provided to the most remote and challenging locations, offering social, humanitarian, economic and educational opportunities. Solarkiosks are already located in Jordan, Ethiopia and Kenya, demonstrating how providing access to solar power can change the future of a community.

Image: GRAFT